"We want the world to know we’re coming": NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on planning more international games
Roger Goodell has been at the helm of the NFL for 18 years as its commissioner, entering his 19th season. Under his leadership, the NFL has become one of the most successful sporting leagues in the world. However, Goodell isn’t done and wants more.
This season, the NFL is taking their Week 1 matchup, a historic rivalry between the Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles, to Brazil. It is one of the five games that will be played internationally. Last year, the NFL owners decided to increase the number of international games to eight but Goodell has even bigger plans.
On Wednesday, Goodell made an appearance on ESPN’s "The Pat McAfee Show" and discussed with the hosts the immense success of the league offshore. While highlighting the future international spots for the games, he said he expects more than eight to happen outside of the US.
“[11:56] We want the world to know we’re coming, that we’re bringing football,” Goodell said. “Our clubs have agreed to play up to eight regular season games. We have expectations that will go well beyond that.”
“We think we’ll be seven next year, we’re already going to Spain next year, we’ll be back in Mexico I hope by next year, so we’re really excited where the future is for us on an international basis.”
Goodell sounded excited about what's in store for the NFL as he plans to bring the game closer to fans around the world.
Roger Goodell shuns retirement talks
Roger Goodell has spent 42 years with the NFL, joining as an intern in 1982 and has risen to his current role. During his appearance on ‘The Pat McAfee Show’, the hosts asked about his plans and retirement.
“It's really it has been such a passion, it would be a big adjustment for me,” Goodell said. “But you know, everything comes to an end, and when I feel like I can't give it everything I have, I can't give it the passion that you're talking about, then I'm definitely hanging up my cleats.”
“But I don't feel that. I'm I couldn't be more excited. I'm ready to go, and I can't sleep at night because I'm so excited.”
Roger Goodell added that his excitement about working in the NFL remains the same and can’t wait for the 2024 season to start.